to strengthen its counter-terrorism powers, in particular by: enabling the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) to seek a warrant to detain and question persons over 14 years of age for the purposes of investigating terrorism offences; and provides for safeguards in relation to these new powers, and penalties for officials’ failure to comply with provisions; and

Telecommunications (Interception) Act 1979

in relation to the authorisation of communication of intelligence by persons other than ASIO officers. Also provides for review of the operation of the legislation 3 years after its commencement.

to: insert new offences in relation to treason and terrorism related activities, all of which carry a penalty of life imprisonment; provide for ministerial declaration of proscribed organisations and insert offences in relation to membership or links with such an organisation;

Crimes Act 1914

to repeal the existing treason offence;

Migration Act 1958

to update treason offence cross-references; and

Australian Protective Service Act 1987

and

Crimes (Aviation) Act 1991

to ensure that the Australian Protective Service has power to deal with terrorist related offences and to perform the aircraft security officer function on intra-state flights. Also contains savings and application provisions.

Establishes the Administrative Review Tribunal which will replace the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, the Social Security Appeals Tribunal, the Migration Review Tribunal and the Refugee Review Tribunal. Also establishes the Administrative Review Council.

by providing the necessary statutory indication to ensure that entry into a treaty by the Australian Government does not give rise to a legitimate expectation in administrative law that the Government will act in accordance with the treaty, which could form the basis for challenge.